Solenoid retainer clip, transmissions and park systems incorporating the same, and assembly methods therefor

Abstract

A transmission, a park system, and a method of assembling the park system are disclosed. The transmission includes an input shaft receiving torque from a drive unit, an output shaft transmitting torque to a load, and a park system that selectively brakes the output shaft. The park system includes an electro-hydraulic valve assembly comprising a solenoid to selectively transmit one or more fluid pressures to a movable element to drive the operation of the park system in a plurality of operating modes, and a solenoid retainer clip pivotally coupled to the solenoid to rotate together with the solenoid around a first rotation axis.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to an electro-hydraulic system of a transmission, and more specifically to a solenoid of such an electro-hydraulic system. Background Technology

[0002] One or more solenoids can be integrated into the electro-hydraulic valve assembly of a transmission to selectively transfer fluid pressure to one or more movable elements of the valve assembly. Systems, devices, and / or methods that avoid the disadvantages associated with conventional solenoids remain areas of interest. means of solving the problem

[0003] The present disclosure may include one or more of the following features and combinations thereof.

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the transmission may include an input shaft receiving torque from a drive unit, an output shaft transmitting torque to a load, and a park system for selectively braking the output shaft. The park system may include an electro-hydraulic valve assembly and a solenoid retainer clip. The electro-hydraulic valve assembly may include a solenoid, and the solenoid retainer clip may be pivotally coupled to the solenoid to rotate together with the solenoid about a first axis of rotation. The solenoid retainer clip may be rotatable about the first axis of rotation to a holding position in which the solenoid retainer clip interacts with an adjacent structure to maintain a spatial gap between the solenoid and the adjacent structure.

[0005] In some embodiments, the solenoid may include a housing that is at least partially accommodated within the valve body of an electro-hydraulic valve assembly, and an electrical connector coupled to the housing and disposed outside the valve body, and in a retaining position, the solenoid retainer clip may interact with an adjacent structure to maintain a spatial gap between the electrical connector and the adjacent structure.

[0006] In some embodiments, in the retaining position, direct contact between the solenoid retainer clip and the adjacent structure can reduce contact between the solenoid's electrical connector and the adjacent structure by inhibiting the solenoid from rotating around its axis of rotation.

[0007] In some embodiments, the solenoid may include a housing that is at least partially received within the valve body of an electro-hydraulic valve assembly, and an electrical connector coupled to the housing and disposed outside the valve body, the housing may include a plurality of cutouts spaced axially apart from the electrical connector, and the solenoid retainer clip may include a pair of retaining fingers each received in one of the plurality of cutouts.

[0008] In some embodiments, a plurality of notches may be formed in the housing to accommodate a pair of retaining fingers in only one direction.

[0009] In some embodiments, the solenoid retainer clip may include a retaining tab interconnected with a pair of retaining fingers and separated therefrom, and in the retaining position, the retaining tab may come into direct contact with the face of an adjacent structure.

[0010] In some embodiments, at the retaining position, a pair of retaining fingers may be at least partially spaced apart from the face of an adjacent structure.

[0011] In some embodiments, the adjacent structure may be a detent spring of a park system comprising a first end fixed to a fixed structure.

[0012] In some embodiments, the detent spring may include a second end arranged opposite to the first end and attached to a plate of the park system, and the plate may be rotatable about a second axis of rotation spaced apart from the first axis of rotation.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second rotation axis may be orthogonal to the first rotation axis.

[0014] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the transmission may include an electro-hydraulic valve assembly and a solenoid retainer clip. The electro-hydraulic valve assembly may include a solenoid that selectively transmits one or more fluid pressures to a movable element. The solenoid retainer clip may be pivotally coupled to the solenoid to rotate together with the solenoid about a first axis of rotation.

[0015] In some embodiments, the solenoid retainer clip may be rotatable about a first axis of rotation to a holding position in which the solenoid retainer clip interacts with an adjacent structure to reduce contact between the electrical connector of the solenoid and the adjacent structure.

[0016] In some embodiments, the solenoid may include a housing that is at least partially received within the valve body of an electro-hydraulic valve assembly, and the housing may include a plurality of cutouts spaced axially apart from the electrical connector, and the solenoid retainer clip may include a pair of retaining fingers each received in one of the plurality of cutouts.

[0017] In some embodiments, the solenoid retainer clip may include a web interconnecting a pair of retaining fingers, and the pair of retaining fingers and the web may cooperate to define the inner surface of the solenoid retainer clip, and the inner surface of the solenoid retainer clip may be sized to interact with the housing only in a portion of the circumference of the first rotation axis.

[0018] In some embodiments, the solenoid retainer clip may be rotatable about a first axis of rotation to a holding position in which the solenoid retainer clip interacts with an adjacent structure to reduce contact between the electrical connector of the solenoid and the adjacent structure, and the adjacent structure may be a detent spring of a park system comprising a first end fixed to a fixed structure.

[0019] In some embodiments, the detent spring may include a second end arranged opposite to the first end and attached to a plate of the park system, and the plate may be rotatable about a second axis of rotation spaced apart from the first axis of rotation.

[0020] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a park system for selectively braking the output shaft of a transmission may include an electro-hydraulic valve assembly and a solenoid retainer clip. The electro-hydraulic valve assembly may include a solenoid. The solenoid retainer clip may be pivotally coupled to the solenoid to rotate together with the solenoid about a first axis of rotation. The solenoid retainer clip may be rotatable about the first axis of rotation in a holding position in which direct contact between the solenoid retainer clip and an adjacent structure prevents the solenoid from rotating about the axis of rotation and maintains a spatial gap between the solenoid and the adjacent structure.

[0021] In some embodiments, the solenoid may include a housing that is at least partially received within the valve body of an electro-hydraulic valve assembly, and the housing may include a plurality of cutouts axially spaced apart from the electrical connector of the solenoid, and the solenoid retainer clip may include a pair of retaining fingers each received in one of the plurality of cutouts and a retaining tab interconnected with the pair of retaining fingers and separated therefrom.

[0022] In some embodiments, a plurality of notches may be formed in the housing to accommodate a pair of retaining fingers in only one direction.

[0023] In some embodiments, at the retaining position, the retaining tab may be in direct contact with the face of an adjacent structure, and a pair of retaining fingers may be at least partially spaced apart from the face of the adjacent structure.

[0024] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for assembling a park system comprising an electro-hydraulic valve assembly including a solenoid and a solenoid retainer clip comprises the steps of: advancing the housing of the solenoid into a bore formed in the valve body of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly such that the housing is at least partially received within the valve body; inserting the solenoid retainer clip into a plurality of cutouts formed in the housing through the valve body so that the solenoid retainer clip is pivotally coupled to the solenoid so that the solenoid retainer clip rotates together with the solenoid about a rotation axis; and rotating the housing and the solenoid retainer clip about the rotation axis relative to the valve body to a holding position in which the solenoid retainer clip interacts with an adjacent structure to maintain a spatial gap between the solenoid and the adjacent structure.

[0025] In some embodiments, the step of advancing the housing into the bore may include arranging one end of the solenoid within the valve body and arranging the other end of the solenoid, opposite to the one end defined by an electrical connector, outside the valve body.

[0026] In some embodiments, the step of inserting a solenoid retainer clip into a plurality of cutouts may include the step of inserting each retaining finger of a pair of retaining fingers of the solenoid retainer clip into one of the plurality of cutouts.

[0027] In some embodiments, the step of rotating the housing and the solenoid retainer clip around the axis of rotation to a holding position may include the step of reducing contact between the electrical connector of the solenoid and the adjacent structure by contacting the adjacent structure with the holding tab of the solenoid retainer clip.

[0028] These and other features of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0029] The invention described herein is illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings and is not illustrated by way of limitation. For the sake of simplicity and clarity of illustration, the elements illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to actual scale. For example, for clarity, the dimensions of some elements may be exaggerated compared to others. Additionally, where deemed appropriate, reference numerals have been repeated between the drawings to indicate corresponding or similar elements. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle drive system integrating a transmission; FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a manifold or valve body of an electro-hydraulic circuit; FIG. 3 is a partial schematic diagram of a powertrain adapted for use in a vehicle; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a solenoid having an electrical connector and a solenoid retainer clip pivotally coupled to the solenoid and in contact with an adjacent structure in a holding position; FIG. 5 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 4 illustrating a state in which the solenoid retainer clip is not obscured in the holding position; FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the solenoid and solenoid retainer clip of FIG. 4, illustrating a solenoid retainer clip coupled to a solenoid in a first installation orientation with adjacent structures and electrical connectors omitted for clarity; FIG. 7 is an exploded assembly view of the solenoid and solenoid retainer clip shown in FIG. 6; FIG. 8 is a front view of the solenoid and solenoid retainer clip of FIG. 4 showing the angular displacement of the solenoid between the initial installation position and the final position; FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a solenoid in the final position where an electrical connector is installed and a solenoid retainer clip is in the holding position. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0030] While various modifications and alternative forms are possible for the concept of the present disclosure, specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings by way of example and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the concept of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific forms disclosed, but rather, on the contrary, is intended to encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives consistent with the present disclosure and the appended claims.

[0031] References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an exemplary embodiment,” etc., indicate that while the described embodiment may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, not all embodiments are required to include specific features, structures, or characteristics. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Additionally, when specific features, structures, or characteristics are described in relation to one embodiment, it is suggested that applying these features, structures, or characteristics in relation to other embodiments, whether explicitly described or not, is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art. Furthermore, it should be understood that items included in a list of the form “at least one A, B, and C” may mean (A); (B); (C); (A and B); (A and C); (B and C); or (A, B, and C). Similarly, items listed in the form “at least one of A, B, or C” may mean (A); (B); (C); (A and B); (A and C); (B and C); or (A, B, and C).

[0032] In the drawings, certain structural or methodological features, such as representing devices, modules, instruction blocks, and data elements, may be depicted in a specific arrangement and / or order for convenience of description. However, it should be understood that such a specific arrangement and / or order may not be required. Rather, in some embodiments, such features may be arranged in a manner and / or order different from that depicted in the exemplary drawings. Furthermore, the inclusion of structural or methodological features in a particular drawing is not intended to imply that such features are required in all embodiments, and may be omitted or combined with other features in some embodiments.

[0033] In some embodiments, the schematic elements used to represent blocks of the method may be performed manually by the user. In other embodiments, implementations of these schematic elements may be automated using any suitable form of machine-readable instruction, such as, for example, software or firmware applications, programs, functions, modules, routines, processes, procedures, plugins, applets, widgets, code snippets, and / or others, each of which may be implemented using any suitable programming language, library, application programming interface (API), and / or other software development tools. For example, in some embodiments, the schematic elements may be implemented using Java™, C++™, and / or other programming languages. Similarly, the schematic elements used to represent data or information may be implemented using any suitable electronic arrangement or structure, such as, for example, registers, data storage devices, tables, records, arrays, indexes, hashes, maps, trees, lists, graphs, files (any file type), folders, directories, databases, and / or others.

[0034] Additionally, in the drawings, where connecting elements such as solid or dotted lines or arrows are used to illustrate a connection, relationship, or association between two or more different schematic elements, the absence of any such connecting element is not intended to imply that such connection, relationship, or association cannot exist. That is, some connections, relationships, or associations between elements may not be depicted in the drawings so as not to obscure the present disclosure. Additionally, for convenience of illustration, a single connecting element may be used to represent multiple connections, relationships, or associations between elements. For example, if a connecting element represents the communication of signals, data, or commands, those skilled in the art should understand that such element may represent one or more signal paths (e.g., buses) that may be required to perform the communication.

[0035] Now, referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary vehicle drive system (100) includes a transmission (120). The transmission (120) is configured to receive rotational power supplied by a drive unit (102) and, in use, to provide rotational power to an exemplary load (e.g., an axle (132) and wheels (134A, 134B) mounted on the axle). The transmission (120) includes an input shaft (122), an output shaft (124), and, in at least some embodiments, a detent spring (420) (see FIG. 4). The input shaft (122) includes any structure or set of structures configured to receive torque / rotational power from the drive unit (102), or otherwise embodies it. The output shaft (124) comprises or otherwise embodies any structure or set of structures configured to transmit torque / rotational power from the input shaft (122) to a load, and the load may include, in addition to the axle (132) and wheels (134A, 134B), for example, one or more transaxles, differentials, transfer boxes, end drives and / or wheels. The park system comprises at least one component in direct contact with the output shaft (124) in at least some embodiments. The park system is configured to selectively brake the output shaft (124) during the park operation mode of the transmission (120).

[0036] In some embodiments, the park system includes a park gear assembly (not shown). The park gear assembly may include components (e.g., gears) arranged to contact an output shaft (124). Additionally, in some embodiments, the park system may include an actuator valve (not shown) coupled to the park gear assembly. The actuator valve may include any device or set of devices having a movable valve element that can be moved in response to one or more fluid pressures applied thereto to drive the operation of the park system in a plurality of operating modes, or may otherwise be embodied therein. In some embodiments, the actuator valve may be integrated into an electro-hydraulic valve assembly (210) of the park system.

[0037] Now, referring to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, an electro-hydraulic valve assembly (210) may be integrated into a vehicle (300). In one example, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly (210) may be included in or form part of a transmission (330). In some embodiments, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly (210) integrated into the transmission (330) may be used with and / or included in the transaxle or transaxle system (320) of the powertrain (310) of the vehicle (300). Additionally, in some embodiments, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly (210) may be used to drive the operation of a system separate from the park system.

[0038] Now, referring to FIG. 4, in an exemplary embodiment, the electro-hydraulic valve assembly (210) includes a solenoid (410) that selectively transmits one or more fluid pressures to a movable element (e.g., a valve element of an actuator valve) to drive the operation of the park system (200) in several operating modes (e.g., a park operating mode and a non-park operating mode). However, in other embodiments, the solenoid (410) may selectively transmit one or more fluid pressures to other valve elements of the valve to drive the operation of a different system distinct from the park system. In any case, the park system includes a solenoid retainer clip (450) pivotally coupled to the solenoid (410) to rotate with the solenoid around a rotation axis (RA). As can be best seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, the solenoid retainer clip (450) can be rotated around the axis of rotation (RA) to a holding position (550) in which the solenoid retainer clip (450) interacts with an adjacent structure (420) to maintain a spatial gap between the solenoid (410) and the adjacent structure (420).

[0039] Referring again to FIG. 1, it should be understood that the exemplary transmission (120) and the drive system (100) incorporating the transmission (120) are adapted for use in one or more vehicles employed in various applications. In some embodiments, the transmission (120) may be adapted or otherwise integrated for use in fire and emergency vehicles, garbage collection vehicles, coach vehicles, RVs and motorhomes, public and / or service vehicles, agricultural vehicles, mining vehicles, special vehicles, energy vehicles, defense vehicles, port service vehicles, construction vehicles, and transport and / or bus vehicles, etc. Additionally, in some embodiments, the transmission (120) may be adapted for use in or otherwise integrated with other suitable equipment such as a tractor, front-end loader, scraper system, cutter and crusher, hay and feed equipment, planting equipment, seeding equipment, sprayer and spreader, tillage equipment, utility vehicle, mower, dump truck, backhoe, track loader, crawler loader, bulldozer, excavator, motor grader, skid steer, tractor loader, wheel loader, rake, aerator, skidder, buncher, forwarder, harvester, swing machine, knuckle boom loader, diesel engine, axle, planetary gear drive unit, pump drive unit, transmission, generator and marine engine.

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, the transmission (120) includes one or more clutches (not shown). One or more clutches may be included in an electro-hydraulic system (138) or otherwise adapted for use with it, and may be coupled between an input shaft (122) and an output shaft (124) to selectively transmit rotational power between shafts (122, 124) in one or more operating modes of the transmission (120). Each of the one or more clutches may be selectively engaged in response to one or more fluid pressures applied thereto.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the drive unit (102) is embodied as or otherwise comprises any device capable of generating rotational power to drive other components of the drive system (100) (e.g., torque converter (108) and transmission (120)) when in use. In some embodiments, the drive unit (102) may be embodied as or otherwise comprises an internal combustion engine, a diesel engine, an electric motor, or other power generation device. In any case, the drive unit (102) is configured to rotatably drive an input or output shaft (104) coupled to a pump shaft (106) of the torque converter (108).

[0042] The input or pump shaft (106) of an exemplary torque converter (108) is coupled to an impeller or pump (110) that is rotatably driven by the output shaft (104) of a drive unit (102). The torque converter (108) further comprises a turbine (112) coupled to a turbine shaft (114). In an exemplary embodiment, the turbine shaft (114) is coupled to or integrated with the input shaft (122) of a transmission (120).

[0043] An exemplary torque converter (108) also includes a lock-up clutch (136) connected between the pump (110) and the turbine (112) of the torque converter (108). The torque converter (108) can operate in a so-called "torque converter" mode during certain operating conditions, such as during vehicle starting, low-speed conditions, and specific gear shifting conditions. In the torque converter mode, the lock-up clutch (136) is disengaged and the pump (110) rotates at the rotational speed of the drive unit output shaft (104), while the turbine (112) is rotatably driven by the pump (110) through a fluid (not shown) interposed between the pump (110) and the turbine (112). In this operating mode, torque amplification occurs through the fluid coupling, so the turbine shaft (114) is exposed to more torque than supplied by the drive unit (102). Alternatively, the torque converter (108) can operate in a so-called "lock-up" mode during other operating conditions, such as when torque amplification is not required. In lock-up mode, the lock-up clutch (136) is engaged and the pump (110) is thereby directly fixed to the turbine (112) so that the drive unit output shaft (104) is directly coupled to the input shaft (124) of the transmission (118) through the torque converter (108).

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the transmission (120) includes an internal pump (118) configured to pressurize one or more fluid (e.g., hydraulic fluid) circuits and / or distribute fluid toward the circuits. In some embodiments, the pump (118) may be configured to pressurize, for example, a main circuit, a lubrication circuit, an electro-hydraulic control circuit, and / or any other circuit integrated into the electro-hydraulic system (138) and / or distribute fluid to the circuits. In some embodiments, it should be understood that the pump (118) may be driven by a shaft (116) coupled to an output shaft (104) of a drive unit (102). In this arrangement, the drive unit (102) may drive the pump (118) and transmit torque to the shaft (116) to form pressure within different circuits of the transmission (120).

[0045] An exemplary transmission (120) includes a gearing system (126) coupled between an input shaft (122) and an output shaft (124). It should be understood that the gearing system (126) may provide one or more gear ratios or otherwise include one or more gear arrangements associated therewith (e.g., planetary gear arrangement, epicyclic drive arrangement, etc.). When used in combination with one or more clutches and electro-hydraulic systems (138) under a control system (not shown), the gearing system (126) may provide one or more operating ranges selectable by the driver or otherwise be associated therewith.

[0046] The output shaft (124) of the transmission (120) is, for example, coupled to or otherwise integrated with the propeller shaft (128). The propeller shaft (128) is coupled to a universal joint (130), which is coupled to an axle (132) and wheels (134A, 134B) to rotatably drive them. In this arrangement, the output shaft (124) drives the wheels (134A, 134B) through the propeller shaft (128), the universal joint (130), and the axle (132) when the drive system (100) is in use. Of course, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the output shaft (124) may drive the wheels (134A, 134B) through a different set of suitable mechanisms and / or structures.

[0047] An exemplary transmission (120) has a plurality (i.e., J) of fluid paths (1401-140 J It includes an electro-hydraulic system (138) fluidly coupled to the gearing system (126) via ), where J can be any positive integer. The electro-hydraulic system (138) is configured to receive control signals provided by various electro-hydraulic control devices (not shown), such as, for example, one or more sensors and one or more flow and / or pressure control devices. In response to these control signals, and under the control of the control system, the electro-hydraulic system (138) controls the operation (e.g., engaging and disengaging) of one or more friction devices (e.g., one or more clutches) included in the gearing system (126) or otherwise adapted for use with it, via a fluid path (1401-140 J Allows the fluid to flow selectively through one or more of the following.

[0048] Of course, it should be understood that one or more friction devices may include, but are not limited to, one or more brake devices, one or more torque transmission devices (i.e., clutches). Generally, the operation of one or more friction devices (e.g., engaging and disengaging) is controlled, for example, by selectively controlling the friction applied by each of the one or more friction devices or otherwise associated with them, such as by controlling the fluid pressure applied to each friction device. In exemplary embodiments not intended to be limited in any way, the electro-hydraulic system (138) may be coupled to one or more brakes or otherwise adapted for use with them. Similar to a clutch, each of the one or more brakes may be controllably engaged and disengaged through the fluid pressure supplied by the electro-hydraulic system (138). In any case, the change or shifting between the various gears of the transmission (120) is achieved through a plurality of fluid paths (1401-140 J This is achieved by selectively controlling the friction device through the control of fluid pressure within.

[0049] In the exemplary drive system (100) illustrated in FIG. 1, the torque converter (108) and the transmission (120) each include a plurality of sensors configured to generate sensor signals indicating one or more operating states of the torque converter (108) and the transmission (120). For example, the torque converter (108) includes a speed sensor (146) configured to generate a speed signal corresponding to the rotational speed of a pump shaft (106) that rotates at the same speed as the output shaft (104) of the drive unit (102) when the drive system (100) is in use. The speed sensor (146) is electrically connected to the pump speed input (i.e., PS) of the controller (190) via a signal path (152), and the controller (190) is operable to process the speed signal generated by the speed sensor (146) to determine the rotational speed of the pump shaft (106) / drive unit output shaft (104).

[0050] In an exemplary drive system (100), the transmission (120) includes a speed sensor (148) configured to generate a speed signal corresponding to the rotational speed of a transmission input shaft (122) that rotates at the same speed as the turbine shaft (114) of the torque converter (108) when the system (100) is in use. The input shaft (122) of the transmission (120) may be directly coupled to the turbine shaft (114) or otherwise integrated with it. Of course, it should be understood that the speed sensor (148) may alternatively be configured to generate a speed signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the turbine shaft (114). In any case, the speed sensor (148) is electrically connected to the transmission input shaft speed input (i.e., TIS) of the controller (190) via the signal path (154), and the controller (190) can be operated to process the speed signal generated by the speed sensor (148) to determine the rotational speed of the turbine shaft (114) / transmission input shaft (124).

[0051] Additionally, in an exemplary system (100), the transmission (120) includes a speed sensor (150) configured to generate a speed signal corresponding to the rotational speed and direction of the output shaft (124) of the transmission (120). The speed sensor (150) is electrically connected to the transmission output shaft speed input (i.e., TOS) of the controller (190) via a signal path (156). The controller (190) is configured to process the speed signal generated by the speed sensor (150) to determine the rotational speed of the transmission output shaft (124).

[0052] In some embodiments, the electro-hydraulic system (138) includes one or more actuators configured to control various operations within the transmission (120). For example, the electro-hydraulic system (138) includes a corresponding number of signal paths (721-72 J Through ), a plurality (i.e., J) of control outputs (CP1-CP) of the controller (190) J It may include a plurality of actuators electrically connected to ), where J may be a positive integer as described above. Each actuator has a corresponding signal path (721-72 J A control signal (CP1-CP) generated by the controller (190) through one of ) J ) can receive a corresponding signal. In response, each actuator has one or more corresponding fluid passages (1401-140 J By controlling the fluid pressure within the system (100), the friction applied by each friction device can be controlled, and thereby the operation of one or more corresponding friction devices can be controlled based on information provided by various speed sensors (146, 148 and / or 150) when the system (100) is in use.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, the drive system (100) includes a drive unit controller (160) having input / output ports (I / O) electrically coupled to the drive unit (102) via a plurality (i.e., K) of signal paths (162), wherein K can be any positive integer. The drive unit controller (160) can be operated to control and manage the overall operation of the drive unit (102). The drive unit controller (160) includes a communication port (i.e., COM) electrically connected to a similar communication port (i.e., COM) of the controller (190) via a plurality (i.e., L) of signal paths (164), wherein L can be any positive integer. It should be understood that one or more of the signal paths (164) can be collectively referred to as data links. Generally, the drive unit controller (160) and the transmission controller (190) can be operated to share information via one or more of the signal paths (164). For example, in one embodiment, the drive unit controller (160) and the transmission controller (190) can be operated to share information through one or more signal paths (164) in the form of one or more messages according to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J-1939 communication protocol. Of course, it should be understood that the present disclosure also considers other embodiments in which the drive unit controller (160) and the transmission controller (190) can be operated to share information through one or more signal paths (164) according to one or more other communication protocols (e.g., from a conventional data bus such as a J1587 data bus, a J1939 data bus, an IESCAN data bus, a GMLAN, or a Mercedes PT-CAN).

[0054] Now, referring to FIG. 2, in an exemplary embodiment, an electro-hydraulic valve assembly (210) is included in an electro-hydraulic circuit (200). A solenoid (410) of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly (210) is coupled to and at least partially received in a manifold or valve body (430) of the electro-hydraulic circuit (200). The manifold (430) is formed to include a network of fluid passages that fluidly communicate with one another, particularly to route hydraulic fluid to various devices of the electro-hydraulic circuit (200). In this embodiment, various devices of the electro-hydraulic circuit (200) can be fluidly coupled to one another through the fluid path established by the manifold (430).

[0055] As discussed further below, the slot (650) extends through the valve body (430) (i.e., its solenoid mounting block (440)) in the vertical direction (VD). As best seen in FIGS. 6 and 7, the solenoid retainer clip (450) is sized for overhead insertion into the slot (650) so that the solenoid retainer clip (450) interacts with the solenoid (410) when the solenoid retainer clip (450) is positioned in the slot (650). Furthermore, as discussed below, the solenoid retainer clip (450) is configured to rotate with the solenoid (410) around a rotation axis (RA) when the solenoid retainer clip (450) is positioned in the slot (650).

[0056] In some embodiments, the park system may include a drive linkage (not shown) coupled between the actuator valve and the park gear assembly. The drive linkage may include a number of mechanical and / or electromechanical structures that cooperate to operatively engage the actuator valve with the park gear assembly. Thus, in some configurations, the actuator valve can drive the operation of the park gear assembly through the drive linkage to establish multiple operating states of the park gear assembly. In one example, through the coupling established by the drive linkage, the translation of the valve element of the actuator valve can drive the operation of the park gear assembly in an engaged state and an unengaged state. In at least some embodiments, in the engaged state, the park system prevents rotation of the output shaft (124). In at least some embodiments, in the unengaged state, the park system allows rotation of the output shaft (124).

[0057] In some embodiments, the drive linkage may include a detent spring (e.g., a detent spring (420)). The detent spring may include an end connected to a fixed structure (e.g., a fixed structure of the manifold (430)) and an end connected to a detent pin (not shown). In at least some embodiments, the detent pin may be sized to be positioned in one of a plurality of notches formed in a plate (not shown) of the drive linkage in the engaged state and the disengaged state of the park gear assembly, respectively.

[0058] Now, referring to FIG. 3, an exemplary vehicle (300) comprises a chassis or main frame (302), wheels (304) coupled to the chassis (302) and configured to rotate around a rotation axis (RA), and a powertrain (310) mounted on the chassis (302). In an exemplary embodiment, the powertrain (310) is embodied as or otherwise comprises a set of devices that cooperate to generate and transmit rotational power to the wheels (304) of the vehicle (300) to propel the vehicle (300) when in use. In some embodiments, the powertrain (310) is mounted on the chassis (302) across a longitudinal axis (LA) to which the chassis (302) extends. In such embodiments, the powertrain (310) is arranged across the driving direction (TD) of the vehicle (300), and the powertrain (310) may be said to have a transverse mounting arrangement relative to the chassis (302). However, in other embodiments, the powertrain (310) can be mounted to the chassis (302) in a different suitable way.

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, the powertrain (310) includes a drive unit (312) that generates rotational power. The drive unit (312) may be embodied as or otherwise include any device or set of devices capable of generating rotational power that can be transmitted to the wheels (304) to drive the movement of the vehicle (300). An exemplary drive unit (312) may be embodied as or otherwise include one or more electric motors. Because the powertrain (310) incorporates one or more electric motors or power sources, in at least some embodiments, the vehicle (300) may be embodied as or otherwise include an electric vehicle. In one example, the vehicle (300) may be embodied as or otherwise include a medium or large electric truck or an electric bus, and the powertrain (310) is employed instead of one or more conventional powertrain(s) associated with one or more internal combustion engine configuration(s). In any case, the operation of the drive unit (312) may be controlled by an engine control module (not shown) comprising one or more processors and one or more memory devices.

[0060] An exemplary powertrain (300) also includes a transaxle (320) coupled to the drive unit (312) to receive rotational power from the drive unit (312) and to transmit rotational power to the wheel (304). The transaxle (320) may be embodied as any set of devices capable of receiving rotational power from the drive unit (312) and transmitting rotational power to the wheel (304), or otherwise may include such. In an exemplary embodiment, the transaxle (320) includes a transmission (330), a differential (340) coupled to the transmission (330), and an axle assembly (350) coupled to the differential (340).

[0061] Now, referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, in an exemplary embodiment, the solenoid (410) comprises a housing (412) that is at least partially received within the valve body (430) of the electro-hydraulic valve assembly (210). In some embodiments, the valve body (430) may define, include, or otherwise form part of a solenoid mounting block (440) formed to include a bore (442) (shown by a dashed line) into which the housing (410) is partially received. The exemplary solenoid (410) also comprises an electrical connector (460) coupled to the housing (412). As demonstrated by FIGS. 4 and 5, when the housing (412) is placed within the valve body (430) and the electrical connector (460) is coupled to the housing (412), the electrical connector (460) is placed outside the valve body (430).

[0062] An exemplary housing (412) of a solenoid (410) generally comprises a cylindrical body (414) and a connector mounting portion (416) coupled to the body (414) and configured to secure an electrical connector (460). The connector mounting portion (416) defines an end (419) of the solenoid (410) arranged opposite to its end (421). The end (421) is received within the valve body (430) so as to allow the solenoid (410) to rotate about a rotation axis (RA) relative to the valve body (430) between an initial installation position (600) (see FIG. 6) and a final position (800) (see FIG. 8).

[0063] As illustrated in FIGS. 4, 5 and 8, when a solenoid retainer clip (450) is pivotally coupled to a solenoid (410) and the solenoid (410) is rotated around a rotation axis (RA) to a final position (800), the solenoid retainer clip (450) is positioned, for example, in a holding position (550). In the holding position (550), the solenoid retainer clip (450) interacts with the adjacent structure (420) to maintain a spatial gap between the connector mounting portion (416) / electric connector (460) and the adjacent structure (420). More specifically, in the holding position (550), direct contact between the solenoid retainer clip (450) and the adjacent structure (420) inhibits the solenoid (410) from rotating around the rotation axis (RA), thereby reducing and / or minimizing contact between the electric connector (460) and the adjacent structure (420).

[0064] As best seen in FIG. 5, when the solenoid retainer clip (450) is in the retaining position (550), the retaining tab (560) of the solenoid retainer clip (450) is in direct contact with the surface (522) (shown as a dashed line) of the adjacent structure (420). In an exemplary arrangement, the structure (420) is positioned at least partially over the solenoid (410) and the solenoid retainer clip (450) so that the surface (522) is positioned facing the solenoid (410) and the solenoid retainer clip (450). As such, in an exemplary arrangement, the surface (522) is positioned on the bottom surface (524) (shown as a dashed line) of the adjacent structure (420).

[0065] In an exemplary embodiment, the adjacent structure (420) is a detent spring of the park system. The exemplary spring (420) includes an expanding end (422) secured to the valve body (430) using a bolt (432) and a notched end (532) arranged opposite the expanding end (422). In some embodiments, the notched end (532) is adapted to secure a detent pin. In any case, the exemplary detent spring (420) includes an extension arm (534, 536) connected to each other and a notch (538) defined between them at the notched end (532).

[0066] In some embodiments, the notched end (532) of the detent spring (420) can be attached to a plate of the park system via a detent pin. In these embodiments, the plate may be configured to rotate around a rotation axis spaced apart from the rotation axis (RA). Furthermore, in these embodiments, the rotation axis may be orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to the rotation axis (RA).

[0067] In some embodiments, the adjacent structure (420) may include other suitable structures or otherwise embody them. In these embodiments, the structure may not be integrated into the park system and / or may not be a component of the park system. In one example, the structure (420) may be a component of the transmission (330). In another example, the structure (420) may be a component of the differential (340). In yet another example, the structure (420) may be a component of the axle assembly (350).

[0068] Now, referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the housing (412) of the solenoid (410) and the solenoid retainer clip (450) are illustrated in more detail. As is best seen in FIG. 7, near the end (421) of the solenoid (410), the housing (412) includes cutouts or grooves (714, 716). The cutouts (714, 716) are axially spaced from the connector mounting portion (416) / electric connector (460) and are sized to accommodate the corresponding features (i.e., fingers) of the solenoid retainer clip (450), as will be discussed further below. In some embodiments, the cutouts (714, 716) are spaced 180 degrees circumferentially apart from each other around the housing (412). In any case, the exemplary housing (412) includes only two notches (714, 716).

[0069] In an exemplary arrangement, when the housing (412) of the solenoid (410) is at least partially received within the valve body (430), the cutouts (714, 716) are aligned with and / or placed within a slot (650) that extends through the solenoid mounting block (440) in the vertical direction (VD). The slot (650) defines an opening (652) on the top surface (642) of the solenoid mounting block (440). As demonstrated by FIGS. 6 and 7, the solenoid retainer clip (450) is sized for overhead insertion through the opening (652) and into the slot (650) so that when the solenoid (410) is in the initial installation position (600), the solenoid retainer clip (450) is received by the cutouts (714, 716) placed within the slot (650).

[0070] An exemplary solenoid retainer clip (450) includes a pair of retaining fingers (760, 780) that are interconnected with and separated from a retaining tab (560) as illustrated in FIG. 7. The retaining fingers (760, 780) are sized to be received in each cutout (714, 716) of the housing (412) of the solenoid (410). In an exemplary embodiment, the cutouts (714, 716) are formed in the housing (412) to receive each retaining finger (760, 780) in only one direction / orientation. Thus, the solenoid retainer clip (450) can be inserted into the slot (650) in only one direction / orientation.

[0071] In the installation orientation (700) of the solenoid retainer clip (450) in which the solenoid retainer clip (450) is inserted into the slot (650) through the opening (652), the finger (760) is arranged on the right and the finger (780) is arranged on the left. Also, in the installation orientation (700) of the solenoid retainer clip (450), the retaining tab (560) is arranged on the right and extends outwardly away from the finger (760) in the horizontal direction (HD). In the initial installation position (600) of the solenoid (410) and the installation orientation (700) of the solenoid retainer clip (450), the cutout (714) is aligned with the finger (760) and the cutout (716) is aligned with the finger (780).

[0072] An exemplary solenoid retainer clip (450) includes a web or bridge (770) that interconnects retaining fingers (760, 780). In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining fingers (760, 780) and the web (770) work together to define a closed inner surface (790) of the solenoid retainer clip (450). The inner surface (790) is sized to interact with the housing (412) of the solenoid (410) only in part around the axis of rotation (RA). Thus, when the solenoid retainer clip (450) is pivotally coupled to the solenoid (410), the solenoid retainer clip (450) does not extend completely around the axis of rotation (RA).

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, the finger (760) of the solenoid retainer clip (450) defines a curved contour along the inner surface (790). The finger (760) extends from the web (770) to the fingertip (762) (e.g., in the vertical direction (VD)). The finger (760) defines at least partially the inner surface (790) and includes a swollen or wide portion (764) that is arranged closer to the web (770) than to the fingertip (762) in the vertical direction (VD).

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, the finger (780) of the solenoid retainer clip (450) defines a curved contour along the inner surface (790). The finger (780) extends from the web (770) to the fingertip (782) (e.g., in the vertical direction (VD)). The finger (780) defines at least partially the inner surface (790) and includes a swollen or wide portion (784) that is arranged closer to the web (770) than to the fingertip (782) in the vertical direction (VD).

[0075] Now, referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the solenoid (410) is rotated counterclockwise around the axis of rotation (RA) from the initial installation position (600) to the final position (800), indicated by the arrow (CCW). Due to the pivot coupling between the solenoid (410) and the solenoid retainer clip (450) established through the interaction between the cutouts (714, 716) and the fingers (760, 780), the rotation of the solenoid (410) causes the solenoid retainer clip (450) to rotate from the installation orientation (700) to the holding position (550). As previously mentioned, at the retaining position (550) of the solenoid retainer clip (450), the retaining tab (560) engages with and directly contacts the detent spring (420), thereby preventing the solenoid (410) from rotating clockwise around the rotation axis (RA) and maintaining a spatial gap between the connector (460) and the detent spring (420).

[0076] In an exemplary embodiment, when the solenoid retainer clip (450) is in the holding position (550), the retaining fingers (760, 780) of the solenoid retainer clip (450) are at least partially spaced apart from the face (522) of the detent spring (420). Additionally, when the solenoid retainer clip (450) is in the holding position (550), the finger (760) is arranged on the left, the finger (780) is arranged on the right, and the retaining tab (560) is arranged on the left and extends outwardly away from the finger (760) in the vertical direction (VD) to contact the detent spring (420). In an exemplary embodiment, rotation of the solenoid (410) and the solenoid retainer clip (450) to the final position (800) and the holding position (550) is allowed only in a counterclockwise direction around the axis of rotation (RA).

[0077] It is understood that although the present disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and description above, it should be considered exemplary and its characteristics are not limited, and only exemplary embodiments have been shown and described, and all changes and modifications made within the spirit of the present disclosure are protected.

Claims

Claim 1 The transmission includes an input shaft receiving torque from a drive unit; an output shaft transmitting torque to a load; and a park system for selectively braking the output shaft, and the park system is An electro-hydraulic valve assembly including a solenoid, and It includes a solenoid retainer clip pivotally coupled to the solenoid to rotate together with the solenoid around a first rotation axis, A solenoid retainer clip is a transmission that is rotatable about a first axis of rotation in a holding position where the solenoid retainer clip interacts with an adjacent structure to maintain a spatial gap between the solenoid and the adjacent structure. Claim 2 In claim 1, the solenoid comprises a housing that is at least partially received within the valve body of an electro-hydraulic valve assembly, and an electrical connector coupled to the housing and disposed outside the valve body, wherein in a retaining position, the solenoid retainer clip interacts with an adjacent structure to maintain a spatial gap between the electrical connector and the adjacent structure, transmission. Claim 3 A transmission according to claim 1, wherein, in the holding position, direct contact between the solenoid retainer clip and the adjacent structure inhibits the solenoid from rotating about the axis of rotation, thereby reducing contact between the electrical connector of the solenoid and the adjacent structure. Claim 4 The transmission according to claim 1, wherein the solenoid comprises a housing that is at least partially received within the valve body of an electro-hydraulic valve assembly, and an electrical connector coupled to the housing and disposed outside the valve body, the housing comprises a plurality of cutouts spaced axially apart from the electrical connector, and the solenoid retainer clip comprises a pair of retaining fingers each received in one of the plurality of cutouts. Claim 5 A transmission according to claim 4, wherein a plurality of cutouts are formed in the housing to accommodate a pair of retaining fingers in only one direction. Claim 6 In paragraph 4, the solenoid retainer clip comprises a retaining tab interconnected with a pair of retaining fingers and separated therefrom, and in the retaining position, the retaining tab is in direct contact with the surface of an adjacent structure, transmission. Claim 7 In paragraph 6, a transmission in which, at the retaining position, a pair of retaining fingers are at least partially spaced apart from the surface of an adjacent structure. Claim 8 In paragraph 1, the adjacent structure is a transmission that is a detent spring of a park system including a first end fixed to a fixed structure. Claim 9 In paragraph 8, the detent spring comprises a second end arranged opposite to the first end and attached to a plate of the park system, and the plate is rotatable about a second axis of rotation spaced apart from the first axis of rotation, the transmission. Claim 10 In paragraph 9, the second rotation axis is orthogonal to the first rotation axis, the transmission. Claim 11 A transmission comprising an electro-hydraulic valve assembly including a solenoid that selectively transmits one or more fluid pressures to a movable element, and a solenoid retainer clip pivotally coupled to the solenoid to rotate about a first axis of rotation together with the solenoid. Claim 12 In claim 11, the solenoid retainer clip is a transmission rotatable about a first axis of rotation in a holding position where the solenoid retainer clip interacts with an adjacent structure to reduce contact between the electrical connector of the solenoid and the adjacent structure. Claim 13 In claim 11, the solenoid comprises a housing that is at least partially received within the valve body of an electro-hydraulic valve assembly, the housing comprises a plurality of cutouts spaced axially apart from an electrical connector, and the solenoid retainer clip comprises a pair of retaining fingers each received in one of the plurality of cutouts, the transmission. Claim 14 In paragraph 13, the solenoid retainer clip comprises a web interconnecting a pair of retaining fingers, the pair of retaining fingers and the web cooperate to define an inner surface of the solenoid retainer clip, and the inner surface of the solenoid retainer clip is sized to interact with the housing only in a portion of the circumference of a first rotation axis, transmission. Claim 15 In claim 11, the solenoid retainer clip is rotatable about a first axis of rotation to a holding position in which the solenoid retainer clip interacts with an adjacent structure to reduce contact between the electrical connector of the solenoid and the adjacent structure, and the adjacent structure is a detent spring of a park system comprising a first end fixed to a fixed structure. Claim 16 In paragraph 15, the detent spring comprises a second end that is arranged opposite to the first end and attached to a plate of the park system, and the plate is rotatable about a second axis of rotation spaced apart from the first axis of rotation, the transmission. Claim 17 A park system for selectively braking the output shaft of a transmission, comprising an electro-hydraulic valve assembly including a solenoid, and a solenoid retainer clip pivotally coupled to the solenoid to rotate about a first axis of rotation together with the solenoid, wherein the solenoid retainer clip is rotatable about the first axis of rotation in a holding position in which direct contact between the solenoid retainer clip and an adjacent structure prevents the solenoid from rotating about the axis of rotation and maintains a spatial gap between the solenoid and the adjacent structure. Claim 18 In claim 17, the solenoid comprises a housing that is at least partially received within the valve body of an electro-hydraulic valve assembly, the housing comprises a plurality of cutouts axially spaced apart from the electrical connector of the solenoid, and the solenoid retainer clip comprises a pair of retaining fingers each received in one of the plurality of cutouts and a retaining tab interconnected with the pair of retaining fingers and separated therefrom, a Park system. Claim 19 A Park system according to claim 18, wherein a plurality of notches are formed in the housing to accommodate a pair of retaining fingers in only one direction. Claim 20 In paragraph 18, a Park system in which, at the retaining position, the retaining tab is in direct contact with the face of an adjacent structure and a pair of retaining fingers are at least partially spaced from the face of an adjacent structure.

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